Margaret Kurth

It is with great sadness, that we announce the passing of Margaret Kurth, a remarkable woman whose love for her family, her passion for cooking and her unwavering commitment to the community touched the lives of many. Margaret passed away peacefully at home at the age of 95, surrounded by her loving family.

Margaret was born in Skibbereen, County Cork Ireland, lived in England and immigrated to the United States at the age of 18.  She was the daughter of the late Daniel and Elizabeth Minihane and is predeceased by her sisters Kathleen Minihane, Mary Sturkey (Charles), Hannah Whitworth (Lloyd), Betty Cantoni (Al), Christine Gard (Jim), Bridie Juanico (John), and her brother Jerome Minihane (Margaret).

Margaret was a Graduate of San Diego State and Cambridge School of Business. She started her career in the United States as a professional dance instructor working for Arthur Murray Dance Studio in San Diego, CA.  She was the recipient of numerous awards and loved teaching various styles including ballroom, Latin and swing dancing. It was dancing where she met her late husband Wilfred Kurth II, who was her student. They spent countless hours dancing together. The couple married in 1957 and were married for 51 years. They have three children, Jennifer, Rebecca and Richard. Margaret and Wil shared a mutual love for their seven grandchildren whether babysitting, attending school functions or sporting events. In later years, they traveled extensively, completing two trips around the world. Margaret loved sharing the stories and the many photo albums of their adventures.

In her early career, Margaret was active as Chair of the Methuen Council on Aging and then spent 20 years as the Executive Director for Merrimack Valley Title VII Meals on Wheels program. Her genuine care and concern for the well-being of the elderly brought comfort and joy to those she served. Throughout her life, she remained steadfast and passionate in her commitment to helping others.

Margaret was a long-time faithful member of First Church Congregational in Methuen.  She was active in church outreach and legendary for running very successful church dinners and cooking for Bread and Roses. She was a dedicated member of the prayer shawl ministry and enjoyed her weekly knitting friends. 

Margaret was the master entertainer. She enjoyed cooking and baking and authored two family cookbooks. She was well known for her delicious recipes and ability to bring people together. Her favorite words were “Can I get you something to eat.” Her culinary skills were widely admired, and she generously shared her knowledge with others, inspiring many to discover the joys of cooking and baking.

Margaret will be deeply missed by her daughters Jennifer and her husband Michael Borislow of Methuen, Dr Rebecca Kurth and her husband Dr Randy Marshall, of New Rochelle, New York and her son Richard Kurth and his wife Krissy of Chelmsford, MA. She adored and loved her grandchildren, Jessica Borislow and Rex Messing, Lauren and Joshua Dollinger, Trevor and Jamnah Marshall, Ginger and Matt Stolz, Zoe Marshall, Alexander and Elizabeth Kurth and great grandchildren, Ripley Marshall, and Asher Dollinger. Margaret was blessed and grateful for her amazing care companions, Maia Nikabadze, Gwen Larsen, Debbie McCann and Tamara Geslaidze.

Margaret will be remembered for her warmth, gracious hospitality, and endless dedication to her family. Her legacy of love, generosity and compassion will live on through the countless lives she touched.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to a celebration of Margaret’s Life that will be held Saturday June 17, 2023 at 11 AM at First Church Congregational in Methuen, followed by interment at West Parish Cemetery in Andover.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Kurth Family Legacy Fund at First Church Congregational, 26 Pleasant St, Methuen, MA  01844 or online at www.firstchurchmethuen.com

For on line condolences please visit www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com

Arrangements under the direction of Dewhirst Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844